Polygon<\/em> defending loot boxes, saying they \u201cenhance the experience that video games offer.\u201d<\/p>\n\u201cContrary to assertions, loot boxes are not gambling,\u201d the statement read. \u201cThey have no real-world value, players always receive something that enhances their experience, and they are entirely optional to purchase. They can enhance the experience for those who choose to use them, but have no impact on those who do not.\u201d<\/p>\n
The ESRB has taken minor steps to self-regulate, including adding a rating descriptor that alerts consumers as to when a game includes in-game purchases and starting a program designed to educate parents about loot boxes.<\/p>\n
Hassan told Variety <\/em>that while she was happy to work with industry groups, government oversight may also be necessary in this area.<\/p>\n\u201cWhile I have appreciated working with the ESRB on this issue, I have also said that the Federal Trade Commission has a responsibility to look at this issue,\u201d Hassan said. \u201cI hope the FTC will move quickly to begin their investigation and look forward to working with all parties on this issue.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Federal Trade Commission chairman Joe Simons told a Senate Commerce subcommittee on Wednesday that the FTC would launch an investigation into loot boxes and similar in-game purchases that have become commonplace in the video game industry. Loot boxes have become a regular inclusion in many video games, providing an ongoing revenue stream for publishers after […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":42,"featured_media":93603,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3312,13592],"tags":[],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n
Loot Boxes to be Investigated by Federal Trade Commission<\/title>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n